Devotional - 98-06-09 - History 101

Hebrews 12:1,2 "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (NASB)

One year from today Donald Duck will be able to start collecting his social security. For it is today, June 9, 1998 that Mr. Duck officially turns 64 years old. I've seen some recent photos and I must say he doesn't look a day over 40. Remembering days and dates is a very important part of life for most folks. Marking our history with birthday celebrations, anniversaries, and the like is so commonplace that nearly everyone knows what 'next one' is on the horizon.

One of the places we get this from is the Bible. You can not read much of any part of the Bible without there being some mention or long dialogue about the past. The feasts and celebrations Israel had every year were to remind them of their history and even more the faithfulness of God throughout their history. It is only natural and right for us to do the same.

Maybe we need not have a moment of silence today to honor Donald Duck, but we ought to occasionally take a moment, or an hour and remember the faithfulness and providence of God in our lives. Everyone has had times of struggle in life, God has brought us through. All of us have fallen into sinful ways, God promises forgiveness and lifts the burden of sin off our backs. The goodness of God to us is worth taking some time and remembering from time to time.

But there is more, it is worth looking at church history and noting the goodness of God throughout all time: from Adam onwards. God has done amazing things throughout the history of the earth. Some is written in the Bible, for other events you might need to consult some history books. Since God is never changing, understanding His goodness throughout all time can only be an encouragement to press on and trust Him with the future.

"The Lord forbade the Israelites to forget what things He had done; how He had cast out nations, taken them from bondage; for this end, that it might be remembered." Paul Bayne

"History is a story written by the finger of God." C. S. Lewis

Soli Deo Gloria,
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